Why Preventative Care Is Becoming the New Standard for Living Well at Home

There is a perceptible change in the attitudes towards health, ageing and wellbeing.

More people are taking a proactive approach to support by understanding how to make everyday life safer, easier and more enjoyable – looking at the small things in the long run.

It's a way of thinking which goes beyond the scope of traditional healthcare.

It is about the places people can remain independent, comfortable and confident in their daily activities and enjoy what they do.

And more and more, it begins at home.

The home is an important part of wellbeing

For most of us, home is the place to spend most of our time. It's where things happen, where we can unwind and, for many, where independence is most crucial.

However, the environment at home may be different from the needs of the people as they change over time.

Even walking up or down stairs, cooking, getting into and out of the shower or doing chores at home can be more challenging. These changes occur all the time and often in a gradual manner, making it easy to miss.

A proactive perspective involves becoming aware of these changes early and thinking about ways to make life easier and more comfortable.

This doesn’t necessarily mean drastic changes. Sometimes the key to the right support is just making the things you do a little easier.

Independence doesn't mean doing everything alone

Many people think that when they accept extra support, they are forfeiting independence. The reality is the complete opposite.

The right support can enable people to keep control of their routines but also offer support when it is necessary. It could involve the presence of one or more people to assist with daily activities, companionship, help with personal habits or a sense of comfort for family members.

Good care should accommodate a person; don't make a person change his or her life for good care.

This is so because there is a growing demand for more personalised ways of ageing and wellbeing.

Small changes can make a significant difference

Preventative care doesn't always look like a big issue. Sometimes it just involves seeing the little details.

Maybe someone is experiencing some of the household chores as more of a burden than they previously did. Perhaps they are less confident heading out on their own, or relatives are concerned about what they are doing on a day-to-day basis.

These can be helpful prompts to remind yourself to take a break and question yourself, such as:

·         Could there be an easier way to do daily tasks?

·         Is there another level of confidence that could be enhanced with support?

·         How would life at home be more comfortable?

·         Can the appropriate support alleviate stress for family members?

·         What would be helpful for someone to maintain their autonomy?

There is no one right answer.

Personalised support is truly personalised.

Quality care is about more than practical support

Assistance and support are vital, but wellbeing is so much more.

There can be a significant difference in the day with connection, conversation, confidence and companionship.

Families can also benefit from the knowledge of a trusted person when this is available to them, which can help to alleviate anxiety and stress.

That's why thoughtful care considers the individual and not merely the task. Gaining insight into their likes, habits, personality and objectives make support feel like a part of their life and not intrusive.

Planning ahead can be a positive thing

A major benefit of a preventive strategy is that decisions are not made in a crisis.

Talking early gives people and families the opportunity to make decisions about what they need to do, to understand the support and options available and to make decisions without pressure.

It also means that future changes can be done gradually with the person's preferences the main focus.

Finally, don't think the worst and plan the best.

It's all about adding to your options.

A more personal approach to care

Expectations of health and wellbeing are changing and the approach to caring is shifting from a one size fits all approach to caring for people to live their lives.

That can be help at home for some.

Others might experience regular contact or assistance with routine activities.

What matters is that they find support that is suitable for them, and not just because it's there. Care should be reassuring, at its best maintaining dignity, choice and independence.

Frequently Asked Questions

1.      What does the term "preventative care" mean?

Preventative care emphasises early detection of issues and implementation of the necessary supports before they are the bigger issue. Within the home-care environment, this may involve practical help, social support, safety and support with everyday activities.

2.      When do you need another helping hand at home?

There isn't a specific age or point at which someone should consider care. Loss in confidence, mobility, routines or being able to manage the activities of daily living can all be clues that more assistance may be needed.

3.      But does someone who is cared for have to lose their independence?

Not at all. The right support can ensure that a person is independent and can help them in the areas that they may struggle with, while still being able to live their life as they want to.

4.      Are there opportunities to provide individual care?

Yes. Quality care should take into account an individual's routines, preferences, goals and circumstances. The amount and/or nature of support may often be modified as needs change.

5.      What are the ways to begin a conversation about care with families?

Take the time to observe, don't assume. Inquire about how they are doing with tasks, what they would like help with and what would make things easier. If they have a goal in mind, it can be more of a positive and collaborative conversation.

Looking ahead

The future of care goes beyond being available when care is called for.

It's about establishing conditions that allow individuals to stay confident, connected and comfortable for as long as they can.

This can start with a simple discussion. Luxe Care can assist you and/or your loved ones in considering how a greater level of support within the household could look.

Contact our team and find out how personalised care can seamlessly come into everyday life.

Call 1300 674 886 Luxe Care today to begin the discussion.